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Stone Warriors #1
Damian
It was a time when gods walked the earth, when armies fought not for bits of land, but for the very existence of humanity. On such a battlefield, five formidable warriors stood against an evil greater than any the earth had ever seen. But evil is not an honorable foe. Betrayed by someone they trusted, the warriors were cursed, one by one, tossed into the maelstrom of time, imprisoned in stone, their freedom resting on nearly impossible conditions. Until . . .
Damian Stephanos honed his skills in battles fought with magic as much as swords. Caught by a deadly spell that left him trapped for centuries in darkness and obscurity, he is finally freed, only to discover that his enemy still lives. Determined to find him—and to free his brothers in arms—he first must fulfill his blood debt to the woman who released him from his torment. Unfortunately, being so close to this enticing female is another type of torment altogether . . .
Cassandra “Casey” Lewis is a hunter. Possessing the rare ability to sense magic, she spends most of her time shadowing arcane collectors, and more often than not, stealing the dangerous artifacts she pursues. Her job is risky, especially when she’s stealing from one of the most powerful sorcerers alive. But having a gorgeous warrior by her side is a definite bonus. He’s great in a fight . . . and in other places, too.
Following a trail of dead bodies, the two of them must join forces to track down the sorcerer who cursed Damian, and who now plans to turn an ordinary magical device into a deadly weapon. Risking everything, including their hearts, they’re about to discover that trusting each other might be the hardest thing of all.
Damian Stephanos honed his skills in battles fought with magic as much as swords. Caught by a deadly spell that left him trapped for centuries in darkness and obscurity, he is finally freed, only to discover that his enemy still lives. Determined to find him—and to free his brothers in arms—he first must fulfill his blood debt to the woman who released him from his torment. Unfortunately, being so close to this enticing female is another type of torment altogether . . .
Cassandra “Casey” Lewis is a hunter. Possessing the rare ability to sense magic, she spends most of her time shadowing arcane collectors, and more often than not, stealing the dangerous artifacts she pursues. Her job is risky, especially when she’s stealing from one of the most powerful sorcerers alive. But having a gorgeous warrior by her side is a definite bonus. He’s great in a fight . . . and in other places, too.
Following a trail of dead bodies, the two of them must join forces to track down the sorcerer who cursed Damian, and who now plans to turn an ordinary magical device into a deadly weapon. Risking everything, including their hearts, they’re about to discover that trusting each other might be the hardest thing of all.
250 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2016
180 people are currently reading
1027 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
June 19, 2016
This book makes me want to cry. What happened, D.B. Reynolds??
I'm a huge, huge fan of the Vampires in America series, and I've given each of those books 3-5 stars, so let me tell you that when I give a book only 1 star, I don't do it lightly.
I was really looking forward to Damian after getting a teaser for this story in Compelled. A new spin off series of one of my favorite series? I was IN! But this book was NOTHING like I was expecting.
One thing I really admire about the Vampires in America series, especially with the character of Cyn, is how strong and independent she is. She isn't the typical, cheesy romance heroine who gives romance books a bad rep. I fight against those types of women in romance because, as a dedicated romance reader, I want to be proud of my genre. However, the heroine here was just everything I don't like.
While Casey seemed strong at first, she became the dreaded romance heroine who, while saving the world, is inexplicably incapable of NOT thinking about sex every five seconds when faced with a handsome man. She went from confident to a crying, insecure catastrophe. The connection between Casey and Damian made no sense (there was no chemistry there... trust me, I searched for it), and the sex felt extremely awkward to me. I got no heat, and I was honestly rolling my eyes every time they talked about their insane and improbable attraction to one another. It was insta-lust followed by insta-love, which I loathe more than I can express.
Damian is also an ass of epic proportions. I love an anti-hero, who starts off as someone you hate but then gets redeemed and you sort of grow to love him over time. Damian wasn't that. He was just a jerk from the first moment you meet him, and I really didn't warm to him over time. And I didn't care one bit about his bulging muscles or his hulking, god-like form.
What's worse is that the plot was not interesting, and borderline made no sense. I could not figure out for the life of me why Nick, who had searched for centuries upon centuries for his best friends and fellow warriors would not rush to see Damian the minute he found out about his existence. Nothing else makes sense, and I wasn't convinced otherwise by the plot.
And the dialogue... *groan* It was soooo cheesy. I honestly kept thinking, "This can't be D.B. Reynolds, it just can't be." It was so unlike what you get from a Vampires in America book.
I'm just going to cover my ears and *la, la, la* my way out of this book. Maybe we can pretend it didn't happen altogether?
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I'm a huge, huge fan of the Vampires in America series, and I've given each of those books 3-5 stars, so let me tell you that when I give a book only 1 star, I don't do it lightly.
I was really looking forward to Damian after getting a teaser for this story in Compelled. A new spin off series of one of my favorite series? I was IN! But this book was NOTHING like I was expecting.
One thing I really admire about the Vampires in America series, especially with the character of Cyn, is how strong and independent she is. She isn't the typical, cheesy romance heroine who gives romance books a bad rep. I fight against those types of women in romance because, as a dedicated romance reader, I want to be proud of my genre. However, the heroine here was just everything I don't like.
While Casey seemed strong at first, she became the dreaded romance heroine who, while saving the world, is inexplicably incapable of NOT thinking about sex every five seconds when faced with a handsome man. She went from confident to a crying, insecure catastrophe. The connection between Casey and Damian made no sense (there was no chemistry there... trust me, I searched for it), and the sex felt extremely awkward to me. I got no heat, and I was honestly rolling my eyes every time they talked about their insane and improbable attraction to one another. It was insta-lust followed by insta-love, which I loathe more than I can express.
Damian is also an ass of epic proportions. I love an anti-hero, who starts off as someone you hate but then gets redeemed and you sort of grow to love him over time. Damian wasn't that. He was just a jerk from the first moment you meet him, and I really didn't warm to him over time. And I didn't care one bit about his bulging muscles or his hulking, god-like form.
What's worse is that the plot was not interesting, and borderline made no sense. I could not figure out for the life of me why Nick, who had searched for centuries upon centuries for his best friends and fellow warriors would not rush to see Damian the minute he found out about his existence. Nothing else makes sense, and I wasn't convinced otherwise by the plot.
And the dialogue... *groan* It was soooo cheesy. I honestly kept thinking, "This can't be D.B. Reynolds, it just can't be." It was so unlike what you get from a Vampires in America book.
I'm just going to cover my ears and *la, la, la* my way out of this book. Maybe we can pretend it didn't happen altogether?
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
August 14, 2017
2.5 stars
Contains minor spoilers and mini rant
I have difficulty rating this so I took Solomons way and went for straight down the middle.
So first things first, this is a spin-off of D.B. Reynolds Vampires in America series. I've only read the first two books of the series and frankly I don't remember what happens in either of them. I vaguely remember some names but if any characters from this book appeared in Vampires of America I really wouldn't know. Despite that, I could read this with no difficulty at all. It didn't reference any past events, just named dropped a bit. So you could easily read this as a standalone.
The plot revolves around Casey and Damian. Casey is a hunter working for Nick Katsaros. She tracks down magical artifacts that can be misused and acquires them. She also has a directive from her boss to be on the look out for certain statues. During a mission, she runs into much bigger opposition than she expected. While trying to escape she finds her self alone on a roof with a statue of a warrior and accidentally brings him back to life by breaking the curse that bound him.
Casey and the now freed Damian are on the hunt for the magical artifact which is stolen by the same evil sorcerer that cursed Damian. And this is where it all started deteriorating. The evil sorcerers name is Sotiris. Now, to non Greek speaking people this doesn't really mean much, it's much like any other name. But unfortunately for people that talk Greek and live in Greece, it's not a very good name for a villain. It's basically like reading about the evil sorcerer Bob. Doesn't really strike fear does it? Evil Bob. It really made me laugh and it took me a while to get used to it in the context of the book.
Then, my very badass, kickass hunter protagonist turned into an insecure, jealous, petty, imbecile after she got some dick. And she got a lot of it. Maybe that's why. I don't believe I'm actually typing this but there was too much sex. Not enough plot progression. At some point they were going from fucking to one hotel to the next hotel without anything much going on in between. Don't get me wrong the sex was mostly pretty hot. But I got tired of it. And who really wants to say that?
The minute Casey got laid a ton of insecurities got out. It was annoying. She could have easily been vulnerable to connecting with Damian without being petty and jealous. And to top it all off she had an attack of monumental stupidity and wound up needing rescuing. She was not only jealous of her female friend that barely talked to Damian on the phone and never saw him but also of her boss and Damian. The same boss who is Damians best friend and has been looking for him for millennia. Because they hugged! I wanted to shake her ass so bad I nearly dropped my tablet.
I truly loved the beginning of this and even got used to evil Bob/Sotiris. The background for Damian and all the magic surrounding him was very interesting and I really want to read about the next warrior. But I was also extremely disappointed with the heroine and how she turned out. So much so that I felt she didn't deserve Damian by the end of the book.. I'm hoping that the next one wont turn out so bad.
To my safety gang:
Contains minor spoilers and mini rant
I have difficulty rating this so I took Solomons way and went for straight down the middle.
So first things first, this is a spin-off of D.B. Reynolds Vampires in America series. I've only read the first two books of the series and frankly I don't remember what happens in either of them. I vaguely remember some names but if any characters from this book appeared in Vampires of America I really wouldn't know. Despite that, I could read this with no difficulty at all. It didn't reference any past events, just named dropped a bit. So you could easily read this as a standalone.
The plot revolves around Casey and Damian. Casey is a hunter working for Nick Katsaros. She tracks down magical artifacts that can be misused and acquires them. She also has a directive from her boss to be on the look out for certain statues. During a mission, she runs into much bigger opposition than she expected. While trying to escape she finds her self alone on a roof with a statue of a warrior and accidentally brings him back to life by breaking the curse that bound him.
Casey and the now freed Damian are on the hunt for the magical artifact which is stolen by the same evil sorcerer that cursed Damian. And this is where it all started deteriorating. The evil sorcerers name is Sotiris. Now, to non Greek speaking people this doesn't really mean much, it's much like any other name. But unfortunately for people that talk Greek and live in Greece, it's not a very good name for a villain. It's basically like reading about the evil sorcerer Bob. Doesn't really strike fear does it? Evil Bob. It really made me laugh and it took me a while to get used to it in the context of the book.
Then, my very badass, kickass hunter protagonist turned into an insecure, jealous, petty, imbecile after she got some dick. And she got a lot of it. Maybe that's why. I don't believe I'm actually typing this but there was too much sex. Not enough plot progression. At some point they were going from fucking to one hotel to the next hotel without anything much going on in between. Don't get me wrong the sex was mostly pretty hot. But I got tired of it. And who really wants to say that?
The minute Casey got laid a ton of insecurities got out. It was annoying. She could have easily been vulnerable to connecting with Damian without being petty and jealous. And to top it all off she had an attack of monumental stupidity and wound up needing rescuing. She was not only jealous of her female friend that barely talked to Damian on the phone and never saw him but also of her boss and Damian. The same boss who is Damians best friend and has been looking for him for millennia. Because they hugged! I wanted to shake her ass so bad I nearly dropped my tablet.
I truly loved the beginning of this and even got used to evil Bob/Sotiris. The background for Damian and all the magic surrounding him was very interesting and I really want to read about the next warrior. But I was also extremely disappointed with the heroine and how she turned out. So much so that I felt she didn't deserve Damian by the end of the book.. I'm hoping that the next one wont turn out so bad.
To my safety gang:
June 17, 2016
An action packed, sizzling romance. The perfect start to an amazing new paranormal series by talented D.B. Reynolds.
Cassandra Lewis had been different all her life, but her affinity with magic made her the very best at her covert job at the FBI. She is one of an elite team of magical artifact hunters currently tasked to retrieve by any means an ancient talisman with the potential to cause mass destruction. She’s didn’t count on accidentally releasing a stone warrior from his curse and has always been a one woman army, but now that she’s facing one of the most dangerous sorcerers in the world, can she learn to cooperate and trust Damian?
Damian Stephanos, a warrior god forged by countless battles against those who would harm humanity was betrayed and confined into a stone prison, forced to watch the world go by and change for millennia until a modern day female warrior shed her blood over his static form and unknowingly asked for his help. Now that he’s free, he resolute in finding his best friend so that together they can free the rest of their trapped brothers and exact their revenge on the evil sorcerer who trapped them. First though, he must fulfill his blood debt to the woman who freed him. Little does he know she’ll lead him right to the men he’s looking for while capturing his heart.
Even though Vampires in America is one of the few paranormal series I still follow and love, I just love that D.B. decided to branch out of the sexy blood sucking subgenre and into this new thrilling one in which magic is the backdrop for antique statues coming to life in the form of sexy, witty alpha males.
Damian and Casey’s story hooked me right from the start with its fast-moving, nail biting beginning in which the descriptions were so vivid I could practically see a movie reel in my mind while Casey was dodging bad guys and Hell Hounds, and Damian was coming to life.
While I met the enigmatic Nick Katsaros, the person who Casey believes is her very mortal boss, in Compelled (Vampires in America #10.5) and got a bit of his background and that of this series in that novella, I loved having him back in the full length novel in which D.B. also expertly crafts a strong and clever heroine to match the man from the past that is witty, quick, smart and deliciously sexy who integrates a little too seamlessly into our modern world. But then again, he is considered an almost god.
The banter and chemistry between Damian and Casey is flaming hot and even though their romance was as fast as the story’s pace I enjoyed it very much. The world building is excellent and includes interesting back ground history that will certainly play into the subsequent novels. Which brings us to the set up for the next book, which is as enticing as the opening action sequence in the beginning of this book, I can’t wait to read it.
Damian is the kick off book in the Stone Warriors series by D.B. Reynolds which promises to be as gripping as her ViA books and a wonderful add to her library. Told mostly from the main character’s points of view and filled with clever banter, exciting and sexy moments with a happy ending. It can be read as a standalone.
4.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
“It was a time when gods walked the earth, when armies fought not for bits of land, but for the very existence of humanity. On such a battlefield, five formidable warriors stood against an evil greater than any the earth had ever seen. But evil is not an honorable foe. Betrayed by someone they trusted, the warriors were cursed, one by one, tossed into the maelstrom of time, imprisoned in stone, their freedom resting on nearly impossible conditions. Until . . .”
Cassandra Lewis had been different all her life, but her affinity with magic made her the very best at her covert job at the FBI. She is one of an elite team of magical artifact hunters currently tasked to retrieve by any means an ancient talisman with the potential to cause mass destruction. She’s didn’t count on accidentally releasing a stone warrior from his curse and has always been a one woman army, but now that she’s facing one of the most dangerous sorcerers in the world, can she learn to cooperate and trust Damian?
Damian Stephanos, a warrior god forged by countless battles against those who would harm humanity was betrayed and confined into a stone prison, forced to watch the world go by and change for millennia until a modern day female warrior shed her blood over his static form and unknowingly asked for his help. Now that he’s free, he resolute in finding his best friend so that together they can free the rest of their trapped brothers and exact their revenge on the evil sorcerer who trapped them. First though, he must fulfill his blood debt to the woman who freed him. Little does he know she’ll lead him right to the men he’s looking for while capturing his heart.
Even though Vampires in America is one of the few paranormal series I still follow and love, I just love that D.B. decided to branch out of the sexy blood sucking subgenre and into this new thrilling one in which magic is the backdrop for antique statues coming to life in the form of sexy, witty alpha males.
Damian and Casey’s story hooked me right from the start with its fast-moving, nail biting beginning in which the descriptions were so vivid I could practically see a movie reel in my mind while Casey was dodging bad guys and Hell Hounds, and Damian was coming to life.
“His lungs expanded with the first breath of oxygen he’d drawn since that long-ago moment on an ancient battlefield… It felt as if he was being ripped apart, his body unable to cope with the awakening of his flesh after all this time… Fingers which had long rested around his sword now gripped it properly… his eyes opened to the world around him. Not the inhuman, unblinking eyes of stone… These were his true eyes.”
While I met the enigmatic Nick Katsaros, the person who Casey believes is her very mortal boss, in Compelled (Vampires in America #10.5) and got a bit of his background and that of this series in that novella, I loved having him back in the full length novel in which D.B. also expertly crafts a strong and clever heroine to match the man from the past that is witty, quick, smart and deliciously sexy who integrates a little too seamlessly into our modern world. But then again, he is considered an almost god.
“I know you’re a god and all that, but in this universe, you’re just another ridiculously handsome man who knows how to shoot a gun.”
The banter and chemistry between Damian and Casey is flaming hot and even though their romance was as fast as the story’s pace I enjoyed it very much. The world building is excellent and includes interesting back ground history that will certainly play into the subsequent novels. Which brings us to the set up for the next book, which is as enticing as the opening action sequence in the beginning of this book, I can’t wait to read it.
Damian is the kick off book in the Stone Warriors series by D.B. Reynolds which promises to be as gripping as her ViA books and a wonderful add to her library. Told mostly from the main character’s points of view and filled with clever banter, exciting and sexy moments with a happy ending. It can be read as a standalone.
4.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
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December 7, 2022
“I am a veritable god of war”
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: ☹️🙃🥰😀
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Cassandra “Casey” Lewis - She was a hunter (working for a special FBI task force that found and destroyed magical objects), being chased by Hell Hounds, carrying a talisman that could be used for mass destruction. Her job was to keep magical artifacts like that out of the hands people that would use them for evil, like the sorcerer Sotiris.
The Hero: Damian Stephanos - He had been a warrior that was cursed and turned to stone ages ago. He was the greatest fighter of his time, then imprisoned in stone for centuries, though he knew the baying of Hell Hounds.
The Story: When Casey touched the stone statue of the Warrior Damien, her blood started soaking into the stone and her whispered plea as she jumped out the window and into a dumpster, burned into him and broke the curse. He was shocked as the stone melted away and his flesh woke up as Casey was surrounded by the Hell Hounds. He leapt off the roof after the woman who broke the curse.
This book was told in dual points of view via solo narration. I usually only buy audiobooks that use dual narration, but this one was on sale and I happen to like the narrator, Tor Thom. He has a very deep voice, which I love and he speaks in a great cadence which is sonorous and pleasing. His voice is almost unearthly, which is perfect for this story.
This story has all the markings of a great adventure. Magic, curses, talismans, a secret division of the FBI, a blonde giant warrior, blood debts, psychics, and more. I liked the mystery and intrigue and the fact that this was a pretty original story. At first when I read the blurb, I wasn’t sure if Damian was a gargoyle or what, but when I found out there were sorcerers and he was cursed, I liked the fact that this was different than most of the stories I have read before.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: ☹️🙃🥰😀
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Cassandra “Casey” Lewis - She was a hunter (working for a special FBI task force that found and destroyed magical objects), being chased by Hell Hounds, carrying a talisman that could be used for mass destruction. Her job was to keep magical artifacts like that out of the hands people that would use them for evil, like the sorcerer Sotiris.
The Hero: Damian Stephanos - He had been a warrior that was cursed and turned to stone ages ago. He was the greatest fighter of his time, then imprisoned in stone for centuries, though he knew the baying of Hell Hounds.
The Story: When Casey touched the stone statue of the Warrior Damien, her blood started soaking into the stone and her whispered plea as she jumped out the window and into a dumpster, burned into him and broke the curse. He was shocked as the stone melted away and his flesh woke up as Casey was surrounded by the Hell Hounds. He leapt off the roof after the woman who broke the curse.
This book was told in dual points of view via solo narration. I usually only buy audiobooks that use dual narration, but this one was on sale and I happen to like the narrator, Tor Thom. He has a very deep voice, which I love and he speaks in a great cadence which is sonorous and pleasing. His voice is almost unearthly, which is perfect for this story.
This story has all the markings of a great adventure. Magic, curses, talismans, a secret division of the FBI, a blonde giant warrior, blood debts, psychics, and more. I liked the mystery and intrigue and the fact that this was a pretty original story. At first when I read the blurb, I wasn’t sure if Damian was a gargoyle or what, but when I found out there were sorcerers and he was cursed, I liked the fact that this was different than most of the stories I have read before.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
October 16, 2019
9/24/19
Now available in audio!!! 🎧
Audible link: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Stone-...
March 14, 2017
Rereading in anticipation of the release of "Kato" Stone Warrior, Book #2.....can't wait!!!
Originally read and reviewed: May 2016
Blog Review: http://sweptawaybyromance.com/review-...
5 Warrior God Stars!!!
Damian is the first book in the new Stone Warriors series, a spin-off of D. B. Reynolds’s Vampires in America. We met Nick Katsaros, Cyn’s one-time lover in Raphael, and again when he became an unlikely ally in Deception. This book picks up after Compelled. As we discovered from the most recent ViA books, Nick is an ancient and powerful sorcerer whose nemesis magically encased his four warrior brothers in stone for centuries. Nick’s quest has been to find and free his brothers and seek revenge on his enemy. I have to admit, I really didn’t think I would like this new series as much as I LOVE the ViA series….boy was I WRONG!! I loved the storyline, the camaraderie, the bantering, the humor, and most especially Damian!!! He is a Warrior God as he continually and hilariously likes to remind Casey.
“You know nothing of me or my time. I am a veritable god of war. My Knowledge of such things is unsurpassed".
You were all those things. Right now, your becoming a pain in my ass, and I’m beginning to think you’re more trouble than your worth. I like the sword. But I can live without it. So there you go. You’re free. Good-bye”.
Cassandra (Casey) Lewis works as a hunter for Nick searching out magical artifacts, and like all of this author’s heroines, she is a strong, beautiful, smart, and can kick-ass! Casey runs into trouble while retrieving the Talisman, a very powerful artifact. While wounded and hiding on a rooftop she inadvertently frees Damian from his stone prison, and holy hell, when he comes to life and makes his initial appearance you will fall in lust with him!! Together, they must track down the artifact before Nick’s long time enemy Sotiris can unleash its power on the world. Their search becomes critical when it is understood just what the Talisman can do in today’s modern world, but, Casey and Damian must overcome personal issues, Damian adapting to his new world and his role in it, and their growing mutual attraction.
“I know you’re a god and all that, but in this universe, your just another ridiculously handsome man who knows how to shoot a gun.”
While on the hunt the sparks between Casey and Damian were so palpable that when they finally gave into each other, and that spark ignites, their coupling was….ON FIRE!!! Nick has a role in Damian and I have to say their reunion was heartwarming.
This series is off to a great start and now I have more than just DB’s luscious vampires to look forward to. In keeping with her signature endings we get a glimpse of what will come next. I hope the rest of the Stone Warriors will have the fantastic sense of humor that Damian has, I'm really looking forward to the next book. I can’t wait for more Stone Warriors!
June 11, 2016
Action and adrenaline with a magical kick! LOVED IT!
Instant heart pounding action filled drama as soon as you open the book. Casey is running from Hell Hounds and being inside her head just adds to the desperate need to find cover and get away in one of the best sequences of events I’ve ever read in the genre. It gives the reader a whiplash type of opening that will have you doing a one sit binge read.
Damian will be the first of the sorcerer Nick Katsaros’s warriors to be discovered and brought back into the fold. His skills as a battle expert and practical assessment of all things warlike will help him in acclimate to the new world he has emerged into. With Casey, the fierce modern day female warrior by his side, there is nothing he can’t do.
Casey has always suspected that things aren’t exactly what they seem, and she would be right. Although completely aware of the magic that flows within objects. she hasn’t really known the extent of the destruction it can cause. She has a job to do and she’s hoping the distraction of warrior Damian won’t hold her up.
I am beyond excited about this new series from D.B. Reynolds. An instant favorite in the PNR world. With a wonderfully sweet set up for book two I cannot wait to continue for more of this world.
5 STARS
*ARC provided by ImaJinn Books/BelleBooks via Netgalley
Top Pick for Summer 2016
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April 18, 2019
Damian by D.B. Reynolds
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Suspense
4.75 Stars
Yes, yes I enjoyed it that much.
Started off on page one with great action & suspense.
Cassandra, the main female mc is running from hellhounds and bullets.
Everything about her latest 'heist' has gone wrong.
And things are about to get even worse!
Cassandra is awesome.
Now that is a strong, intelligent and knock your socks of heroine!
She totally kicks A##!
Fate enters and thrust Damian into her life.
Damian is fantastic.
Warrior of old.
Strong, smart and sexy.
A sense of humor and, in his own words, "A god of War".
This was fast paced and a great read.
I was very pleasantly surprised.
I expected a good read. I didn't expect it to be this great.
Well done Ms. Reynolds!
All the characters are well developed.
The world build was great.
The action and suspense kept my attention.
The 'Adult' action was so steamy my glasses fogged up!
I did find a couple of editing errors, but nothing substantial.
Now I have to get the next book in this series!
A must read for me 📖
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Suspense
4.75 Stars
Yes, yes I enjoyed it that much.
Started off on page one with great action & suspense.
Cassandra, the main female mc is running from hellhounds and bullets.
Everything about her latest 'heist' has gone wrong.
And things are about to get even worse!
Cassandra is awesome.
Now that is a strong, intelligent and knock your socks of heroine!
She totally kicks A##!
Fate enters and thrust Damian into her life.
Damian is fantastic.
Warrior of old.
Strong, smart and sexy.
A sense of humor and, in his own words, "A god of War".
This was fast paced and a great read.
I was very pleasantly surprised.
I expected a good read. I didn't expect it to be this great.
Well done Ms. Reynolds!
All the characters are well developed.
The world build was great.
The action and suspense kept my attention.
The 'Adult' action was so steamy my glasses fogged up!
I did find a couple of editing errors, but nothing substantial.
Now I have to get the next book in this series!
A must read for me 📖
June 11, 2016
I guess every love story has its bumps on the road to a happy ending. This was the first fight Ms Reynolds and I had.
I couldn't get into the story. I felt the romance way too rushed, insta lust and insta love since the first few chapters, the sex and the romantic thread overpowering the rest of the plot. But mostly I couldn't get to like the main characters. I almost despised the hero, a supercilious ass if I've ever seen one, and the whiney, insecure heroine that had me cringe on more than one occasion.
I couldn't stand the emphasis on his ripping body nor the fact he was compared to a god every few paragraphs.
Midway when she's on the verge of crying because she has offeded him and sh's terrified he's leaving her, I knew I couldn't go on reading.
I'm sorry, Ms Reynolds, can I get a rain check and wait for the next book?
I couldn't get into the story. I felt the romance way too rushed, insta lust and insta love since the first few chapters, the sex and the romantic thread overpowering the rest of the plot. But mostly I couldn't get to like the main characters. I almost despised the hero, a supercilious ass if I've ever seen one, and the whiney, insecure heroine that had me cringe on more than one occasion.
I couldn't stand the emphasis on his ripping body nor the fact he was compared to a god every few paragraphs.
Midway when she's on the verge of crying because she has offeded him and sh's terrified he's leaving her, I knew I couldn't go on reading.
I'm sorry, Ms Reynolds, can I get a rain check and wait for the next book?
June 27, 2021
ARC received for review
4.5 stars
A group of warrior brothers cursed to live in stone always watching, never participating. Great chemistry between Damian and Casey. Lots of adventure and hot sex. Loved the epilogue introducing the next couple.
I can't wait to meet the rest of the brothers and also learn more about their sorcerer leader, Nico/Nick.
4.5 stars
A group of warrior brothers cursed to live in stone always watching, never participating. Great chemistry between Damian and Casey. Lots of adventure and hot sex. Loved the epilogue introducing the next couple.
I can't wait to meet the rest of the brothers and also learn more about their sorcerer leader, Nico/Nick.
June 4, 2017
Damian takes place in the same time setting as Reynolds "Vampires in America" series, and can be considered a spinoff. This story, however, is an entirely different take on the setting. It's hard to talk about the book without being spoilery; but if the reader has been keeping up with VIA, they already know the background of this series.
Nick Katsaros is an old friend of Cyn (from VIA). However, Nick is a man of deep secrets, things that no one knows. He is a long-lived sorcerer, and lost four of his closest warriors long ago to a spell by an evil rival sorcerer. This spell turned his warriors into stone statues which were dispersed to the far corners of the earth. Nick has been looking for his comrades for many years, as well as collecting talismans to defeat the evil sorcerer Sotiris.
This first book is about the warrior Damian. Nick sends one if his accomplices, Casey, to acquire a specific talisman; in the course of which she unwittingly releases Damian from his spell. Damian joins Casey in the hunt for the artifact, which puts them hot on the dangerous trail of Sotiris. I fully enjoyed the story; with the niggling complaint of how unrealistically and quickly Damian adjusted to the modern world. It didn't ring true, and felt a little 'off'. I do understand that Reynolds needed to keep the story moving, however. Oh, and I wanted more Nick in the story. After all, he is the character who drew the VIA reader to this new series. We can only hope that there will be a fifth book solely about Nick.
Damian is a fresh and invigorating addition to Reynolds vampire world; and "Stone Warriors" looks to be another great series about the four warriors. While not perfect, the story was quite entertaining; and Reynolds storytelling talent is far above many authors currently writing.
Nick Katsaros is an old friend of Cyn (from VIA). However, Nick is a man of deep secrets, things that no one knows. He is a long-lived sorcerer, and lost four of his closest warriors long ago to a spell by an evil rival sorcerer. This spell turned his warriors into stone statues which were dispersed to the far corners of the earth. Nick has been looking for his comrades for many years, as well as collecting talismans to defeat the evil sorcerer Sotiris.
This first book is about the warrior Damian. Nick sends one if his accomplices, Casey, to acquire a specific talisman; in the course of which she unwittingly releases Damian from his spell. Damian joins Casey in the hunt for the artifact, which puts them hot on the dangerous trail of Sotiris. I fully enjoyed the story; with the niggling complaint of how unrealistically and quickly Damian adjusted to the modern world. It didn't ring true, and felt a little 'off'. I do understand that Reynolds needed to keep the story moving, however. Oh, and I wanted more Nick in the story. After all, he is the character who drew the VIA reader to this new series. We can only hope that there will be a fifth book solely about Nick.
Damian is a fresh and invigorating addition to Reynolds vampire world; and "Stone Warriors" looks to be another great series about the four warriors. While not perfect, the story was quite entertaining; and Reynolds storytelling talent is far above many authors currently writing.
June 28, 2016
Apart from some quibbles in the second half of the book, when Casey risked a fall into TSTL cathegory, I like it, but because of that this is for me a 4 and 1/2 stars rounded to 5 because I like the style!
Damian was especially yummy! LOL
He's an alpha, obviously, but he has some very interesting ideas and he constantly tease Casey with a false serious observations! He also constantly confound her because she never knows when he's serious and when he's not! LOL
Casey was great too. Except when she suddenly transformed from kick-ass to TSTL in a metter of hours! That was the moment when I considered giving this book not more than 3 stars, but she recovered quickly, even if her TSTL moment had some serious consequences...
An interesting spin off of ViA series! I would have liked more of Nick, which I liked in ViA and was ineterested to finding out more about him, but I suppose Ms. Reynolds will dedidcate a special book to his story in the future!
Damian was especially yummy! LOL
He's an alpha, obviously, but he has some very interesting ideas and he constantly tease Casey with a false serious observations! He also constantly confound her because she never knows when he's serious and when he's not! LOL
Casey was great too. Except when she suddenly transformed from kick-ass to TSTL in a metter of hours! That was the moment when I considered giving this book not more than 3 stars, but she recovered quickly, even if her TSTL moment had some serious consequences...
An interesting spin off of ViA series! I would have liked more of Nick, which I liked in ViA and was ineterested to finding out more about him, but I suppose Ms. Reynolds will dedidcate a special book to his story in the future!
May 1, 2017
Buckle in, kids. This book was a a shitshow. And I can't stop rambling. Sorry, not sorry.
Okay, first of all, I liked this book in the very beginning. It had Casey on the run, dodging bullets and whatnot while you get trickle-taught about magicks and stuff. Okay, I'm in. Sounded interesting. I was down with the premise of the book (magic! curses! heroes! muscles! smart ladies!)
BUTTTTTTTTTTT
As soon as Damian awakens, it's a spiral downhill into DumbsVille and TSTL Female Character and Obnoxious "ALPHA".
I'm just going to bullet what annoyed the fuck outta me, spoilers because IDGAF.
* They haz a case of the lusts immediately. And boink on Day 1.5 basically.
* The book itself spans ONE WEEK. One week from breaking a curse to luuuuuuuuuurve. This means that there is essentially no character development. Which is fine in a porny book. But don't pretend to have a plot then if that's your goal.
* Speaking of Teh Sex, every time they did the 'do Casey whispered "Damian." LITERALLY EVERY TIME. I got sick of her whispering.
* In addition, these words were always in play: pussy, cunt, sheath, cream(y) (*gag*), cock, juices/juicy (*gag*).... I cannot go on ~shudders~.
* Also, I call shenanigans on Damian sticking his RAGING GIANT BONER in Casey's "tight little (butt) hole" (BARF) in the shower.
* Between the constant whispering and gushing cream (barf again), I skipped over these fuckfests.
HOWEVER. The most infuriating thing about this book is how STUPID Casey is! I was tricked into thinking she was a fucking capable human ADULT but instead she's a whiney BABY idiot. Okay, so let's break this down.
* Nick & Damian have literally known each other FOR MILLENNIA.
* Casey is jealous because she feels "left out of the club" (????) and that Damian and Nick have a connection (?????) and that Damian feels more loyalty to Nick than her (??????). Damn, bitch he's only fucked you for a week SLOW YOUR ROLL HONEY.
All of this comes to a head when she awakens after a (subpar) fuckfest to discover that GASP! Damian is gone! And conveniently his computer is open and she finds messages between him and Nick! The TRICKERY! THE LIES! They are meeting WITHOUT her! So, she does the sane thing and wait for him to return to confront him. JUST KIDDING. She packs her shit and leaves IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT to go after the Evil Sorcerer Supreme BY HERSELF where she eventually gets kidnapped and tortured. And when the goddamn dudes come and save her fucking ass she's grateful! JUST KIDDING! She's an asshat and is like "ERMAGHERD DON'T TOUCH ME YOU LIAR I HATE YOUR FACE BECAUSE YOU LOVE NICK MORE THAN ME *SOB SOB*"
~~~~ insert eyeroll gif here ~~~~
SHE IS SERIOUSLY UPSET THAT SHE DOESN'T KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT EVERYONE WHILE ALSO KEEPING HER OWN SECRETS. But that's okay because she has "bad luck" with men (abusive father and ex-husband, none elaborated on).
All that to say, this book was terribad. You're welcome.
Okay, first of all, I liked this book in the very beginning. It had Casey on the run, dodging bullets and whatnot while you get trickle-taught about magicks and stuff. Okay, I'm in. Sounded interesting. I was down with the premise of the book (magic! curses! heroes! muscles! smart ladies!)
BUTTTTTTTTTTT
As soon as Damian awakens, it's a spiral downhill into DumbsVille and TSTL Female Character and Obnoxious "ALPHA".
I'm just going to bullet what annoyed the fuck outta me, spoilers because IDGAF.
* They haz a case of the lusts immediately. And boink on Day 1.5 basically.
* The book itself spans ONE WEEK. One week from breaking a curse to luuuuuuuuuurve. This means that there is essentially no character development. Which is fine in a porny book. But don't pretend to have a plot then if that's your goal.
* Speaking of Teh Sex, every time they did the 'do Casey whispered "Damian." LITERALLY EVERY TIME. I got sick of her whispering.
* In addition, these words were always in play: pussy, cunt, sheath, cream(y) (*gag*), cock, juices/juicy (*gag*).... I cannot go on ~shudders~.
* Also, I call shenanigans on Damian sticking his RAGING GIANT BONER in Casey's "tight little (butt) hole" (BARF) in the shower.
* Between the constant whispering and gushing cream (barf again), I skipped over these fuckfests.
HOWEVER. The most infuriating thing about this book is how STUPID Casey is! I was tricked into thinking she was a fucking capable human ADULT but instead she's a whiney BABY idiot. Okay, so let's break this down.
* Nick & Damian have literally known each other FOR MILLENNIA.
* Casey is jealous because she feels "left out of the club" (????) and that Damian and Nick have a connection (?????) and that Damian feels more loyalty to Nick than her (??????). Damn, bitch he's only fucked you for a week SLOW YOUR ROLL HONEY.
All of this comes to a head when she awakens after a (subpar) fuckfest to discover that GASP! Damian is gone! And conveniently his computer is open and she finds messages between him and Nick! The TRICKERY! THE LIES! They are meeting WITHOUT her! So, she does the sane thing and wait for him to return to confront him. JUST KIDDING. She packs her shit and leaves IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT to go after the Evil Sorcerer Supreme BY HERSELF where she eventually gets kidnapped and tortured. And when the goddamn dudes come and save her fucking ass she's grateful! JUST KIDDING! She's an asshat and is like "ERMAGHERD DON'T TOUCH ME YOU LIAR I HATE YOUR FACE BECAUSE YOU LOVE NICK MORE THAN ME *SOB SOB*"
~~~~ insert eyeroll gif here ~~~~
SHE IS SERIOUSLY UPSET THAT SHE DOESN'T KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT EVERYONE WHILE ALSO KEEPING HER OWN SECRETS. But that's okay because she has "bad luck" with men (abusive father and ex-husband, none elaborated on).
All that to say, this book was terribad. You're welcome.
July 10, 2016
4 stars for the plot
3 stars for the characters
2 stars for the chemistry between the characters
I really liked the plot and Damian character was better developed than Casey. Casey's character started as a strong, independent modern day female warrior but fell apart as the story progressed. She became very insecure and her thoughts were mostly about getting her next sexual release. The relationship between the characters was 95% based on sexual attraction.
3 stars for the characters
2 stars for the chemistry between the characters
I really liked the plot and Damian character was better developed than Casey. Casey's character started as a strong, independent modern day female warrior but fell apart as the story progressed. She became very insecure and her thoughts were mostly about getting her next sexual release. The relationship between the characters was 95% based on sexual attraction.
February 17, 2017
Actiony goodness! Recommend!
June 21, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Casey Lewis is a hunter, and she is tough as nails. She has learned to have a tough skin. So when Nick recruited her to his team from the FBI for her psychic talents, she was more than ready for the challenge. But while retrieving a special artifact for her boss, she is being chased by hell-hound. On her way, trying to deceive them from her scent, she stumbles across a "stone warrior" and unknowingly releases him from his stone prison and he comes to her aid. Damian, is one of the five warrior brothers, one out of four that were imprisoned in order to weaken Nick, the one brother they were devoted to and served and would protect at all cost and above all together they were invisible. But their enemy wanted to defeat them. But now Damian has been released, and feels more alive than ever especially while trying to learn this new world and becoming Casey's partner and reuniting with his brother he would die to protect. Their enemy is cunning and deceitful and his plan to kill hundreds of innocent people, will have Damian and Casey working together to defeat him.
Plot and Story Line
Damian is the first book of a new spin off series that is connected to Vampires in America-somewhat loosely though. And boy did I have some wild fun with this book!! I really liked the more fantasy and mythology themes to this story and the world building that Reynolds develops even more. What was interesting about this one was seeing the romance build and the friendship of Nick and Damian. First off the characters were all so fabulous. I really liked Casey. She is tough and a fighter, but it is all that she knows. She was raised with a military father who treated his kids like soldiers. She knows how to fight and we see a softer side to her character build in the story. She hasn't exactly been treated right by men in her life all except Nick her boss who has always believed in her. But now, she is faced with Damian who is altogether different and unique. She is out of her element with him, but holds her own with him. Damian is a character that will give you chills down your spine (but in a good way) He is very alpha male, he likes to take charge, a warrior and love what he can do with a sword, and is loyal to his brothers. I love how he worms his way into Casey's life in simple ways like insisting on driving hehe makes for some interesting bantering. It was quite fascinating seeing the story come together. Has a few quirks that I thought made the book seem even more mysterious. And yeah I can't wait for stone warrior #2.
The Cover
I really like it....its a bit different. Has a bit more of a intense feel to it, but I love the grey and purple tones.
Overall View
Damian is a story that brings together paranormal and mythology fantasy elements into a story that is spellbinding and engaging!! A SEXY PAGE TURNER!
Summary
Casey Lewis is a hunter, and she is tough as nails. She has learned to have a tough skin. So when Nick recruited her to his team from the FBI for her psychic talents, she was more than ready for the challenge. But while retrieving a special artifact for her boss, she is being chased by hell-hound. On her way, trying to deceive them from her scent, she stumbles across a "stone warrior" and unknowingly releases him from his stone prison and he comes to her aid. Damian, is one of the five warrior brothers, one out of four that were imprisoned in order to weaken Nick, the one brother they were devoted to and served and would protect at all cost and above all together they were invisible. But their enemy wanted to defeat them. But now Damian has been released, and feels more alive than ever especially while trying to learn this new world and becoming Casey's partner and reuniting with his brother he would die to protect. Their enemy is cunning and deceitful and his plan to kill hundreds of innocent people, will have Damian and Casey working together to defeat him.
Plot and Story Line
Damian is the first book of a new spin off series that is connected to Vampires in America-somewhat loosely though. And boy did I have some wild fun with this book!! I really liked the more fantasy and mythology themes to this story and the world building that Reynolds develops even more. What was interesting about this one was seeing the romance build and the friendship of Nick and Damian. First off the characters were all so fabulous. I really liked Casey. She is tough and a fighter, but it is all that she knows. She was raised with a military father who treated his kids like soldiers. She knows how to fight and we see a softer side to her character build in the story. She hasn't exactly been treated right by men in her life all except Nick her boss who has always believed in her. But now, she is faced with Damian who is altogether different and unique. She is out of her element with him, but holds her own with him. Damian is a character that will give you chills down your spine (but in a good way) He is very alpha male, he likes to take charge, a warrior and love what he can do with a sword, and is loyal to his brothers. I love how he worms his way into Casey's life in simple ways like insisting on driving hehe makes for some interesting bantering. It was quite fascinating seeing the story come together. Has a few quirks that I thought made the book seem even more mysterious. And yeah I can't wait for stone warrior #2.
The Cover
I really like it....its a bit different. Has a bit more of a intense feel to it, but I love the grey and purple tones.
Overall View
Damian is a story that brings together paranormal and mythology fantasy elements into a story that is spellbinding and engaging!! A SEXY PAGE TURNER!
June 20, 2016
This one did not work for me. 2.5 stars
WARNING possible SPOILERS ahead
I loved the idea of this story, I was totally looking forward to reading about Nick and his warriors.
Nick first appeared as Cyn's part time sexy rich lover at the beginning on the VIA series. He quickly disappeared off the scene due to .... Raphael... swoons.
He reappeared as a savior of sorts in Deception (which was brilliant) and was revealed as a millennium old very powerful sorcerer. The reason for his reappearance was further expanded on in the novella Compelled, which again I thoroughly enjoyed. This all lead to me being super excited to read more about Nick.
This story starts off with a bang with Casey running for life, after having just stolen a magic artifact for Nick. She frees Damian ( up to you to read how) who then saves her life. As Casey works for Nick as a "hunter" she knows that this warrior is someone her boss is looking for.
Unfortunately from then on the book ended up falling flat for me. Damian (our warrior) is googling his big old heart out, flipping tv channels, fully able to shoot guns and know what bullet types are required, aware of parking lots and what they are for gods sake in like 2 days after being encased in stone for like 1000 years. I mean fantasy is one thing, but this doesn't just stretch the imagination, it snapped it. Nick has been looking for this guy for ever and yet when they meet again, its like a big old hug, to smacks on the cheek and a gotta run?. Let me not even begin on how Casey refuses to let Damian drive ( understandable seeing as how the dude has been a stone statue for 1000 years or so ) but suddenly he is DRIVING the frigging car..? Last but not least, let me not forget to mention the sex with the multiple orgasms at every turn described in all its detail.
Being the stubborn forgiving sucker that I am, I am going to put all this down to first book shenanigans. So yes I will pick up the 2nd book.
WARNING possible SPOILERS ahead
I loved the idea of this story, I was totally looking forward to reading about Nick and his warriors.
Nick first appeared as Cyn's part time sexy rich lover at the beginning on the VIA series. He quickly disappeared off the scene due to .... Raphael... swoons.
He reappeared as a savior of sorts in Deception (which was brilliant) and was revealed as a millennium old very powerful sorcerer. The reason for his reappearance was further expanded on in the novella Compelled, which again I thoroughly enjoyed. This all lead to me being super excited to read more about Nick.
This story starts off with a bang with Casey running for life, after having just stolen a magic artifact for Nick. She frees Damian ( up to you to read how) who then saves her life. As Casey works for Nick as a "hunter" she knows that this warrior is someone her boss is looking for.
Unfortunately from then on the book ended up falling flat for me. Damian (our warrior) is googling his big old heart out, flipping tv channels, fully able to shoot guns and know what bullet types are required, aware of parking lots and what they are for gods sake in like 2 days after being encased in stone for like 1000 years. I mean fantasy is one thing, but this doesn't just stretch the imagination, it snapped it. Nick has been looking for this guy for ever and yet when they meet again, its like a big old hug, to smacks on the cheek and a gotta run?. Let me not even begin on how Casey refuses to let Damian drive ( understandable seeing as how the dude has been a stone statue for 1000 years or so ) but suddenly he is DRIVING the frigging car..? Last but not least, let me not forget to mention the sex with the multiple orgasms at every turn described in all its detail.
Being the stubborn forgiving sucker that I am, I am going to put all this down to first book shenanigans. So yes I will pick up the 2nd book.
July 3, 2016
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!
***Received ebook from Belle Books for an honest review
This is the first book in a spin-off from Vampires in America where we first met Nick (the sorcerer). This is for adults only due to the steamy content.
D.B. Reynolds’ books are books that fully engage me in the story. I love her writing style. There is always plenty of action, drama, and sex appeal. Her writing is always packed with details that make the stories come alive in your mind. If you haven’t read any of her work, you need to try it. Start with one of the book 1’s though because you will definitely get hooked, and you don’t want to miss the layers of character backgrounds, relationships, and chemistry. If you jump around, you are only shorting yourself.
Damian and Casey’s story is beautiful and amazing journey, full of adventure! I started off thinking Damian was a caveman with his ‘woman’ references, but he changed my mind. Casey has insecurities I think we all have, and she was easy to relate to though she has warrior skills that will amaze you. Damian does too :) I can’t wait to read the next book in this series! Ok, really I can’t wait until any book of D.B.’s is released.
I highly recommend this book as well as any of the books written by this author! I do not say this about too many authors! If you love PNRs, you have got to read this! I hope there is something new soon because I can’t wait!
***Received ebook from Belle Books for an honest review
This is the first book in a spin-off from Vampires in America where we first met Nick (the sorcerer). This is for adults only due to the steamy content.
D.B. Reynolds’ books are books that fully engage me in the story. I love her writing style. There is always plenty of action, drama, and sex appeal. Her writing is always packed with details that make the stories come alive in your mind. If you haven’t read any of her work, you need to try it. Start with one of the book 1’s though because you will definitely get hooked, and you don’t want to miss the layers of character backgrounds, relationships, and chemistry. If you jump around, you are only shorting yourself.
Damian and Casey’s story is beautiful and amazing journey, full of adventure! I started off thinking Damian was a caveman with his ‘woman’ references, but he changed my mind. Casey has insecurities I think we all have, and she was easy to relate to though she has warrior skills that will amaze you. Damian does too :) I can’t wait to read the next book in this series! Ok, really I can’t wait until any book of D.B.’s is released.
I highly recommend this book as well as any of the books written by this author! I do not say this about too many authors! If you love PNRs, you have got to read this! I hope there is something new soon because I can’t wait!
May 24, 2016
The anticipation you endure while waiting for the first book in a new series is often overwhelming; but when the author provides such an exciting, action-packed and revealing tale, the wait is definitely worth it!
Following in the footsteps of the Vampires in America series was never going to be easy; yet D.B. Reynolds has managed to ensure her exemplary reputation is safe and sound. The spin-off series which chronicles the mystery of Nick and his long lost brethren The Stone Warriors, is every bit as captivating, while seizing the reader with both hands to travel through the ages and witness the ruthless suffering of the imposing DAMIAN in this introductory story about these brutalised souls.
Well developed world building provides a wealth of background history and the cast of characters on offer guarantees that this will be merely the first of many enthralling stories about these imprisoned warriors and the rescuers yet to come.
If you ever had any doubts that D.B. Reynolds could continue to stroke our addition to her fabulous books, then you can breath a satisfied sigh of relief as The Stone Warriors add their presence to this talented author's library of works.
Following in the footsteps of the Vampires in America series was never going to be easy; yet D.B. Reynolds has managed to ensure her exemplary reputation is safe and sound. The spin-off series which chronicles the mystery of Nick and his long lost brethren The Stone Warriors, is every bit as captivating, while seizing the reader with both hands to travel through the ages and witness the ruthless suffering of the imposing DAMIAN in this introductory story about these brutalised souls.
Well developed world building provides a wealth of background history and the cast of characters on offer guarantees that this will be merely the first of many enthralling stories about these imprisoned warriors and the rescuers yet to come.
If you ever had any doubts that D.B. Reynolds could continue to stroke our addition to her fabulous books, then you can breath a satisfied sigh of relief as The Stone Warriors add their presence to this talented author's library of works.
October 1, 2016
3.5*
I'm saying it: it had too much sex! Everything else was good and I loved how the book ended, but the sex! Don't get me wrong I like sex, I love it! but people priorities! They were trying to stop a catastrophic event but they couldn't stop having sex...
I'm saying it: it had too much sex! Everything else was good and I loved how the book ended, but the sex! Don't get me wrong I like sex, I love it! but people priorities! They were trying to stop a catastrophic event but they couldn't stop having sex...
May 21, 2016
I will not write an extensive review about Damian. Not because I cannot, but because it was just too rich to capture everything in any synopsis that I could render. But what I will say is simple. Damian is book 1 in Reynolds's new Stone Warriors series. Although it is the first book, a bit of a preface to the Warriors story is contained in the Compelled novella. It is not necessary to read Compelled first but I recommend doing so.
Paranormal romance lovers, specifically those who enjoy magic, myth, and lore will will be absolutely thrilled to dive into this one. Although the story is not overladen with these elements, they infuse the story with an engaging potency that is not to be missed. Damian started off with an intensity that did not let up until the very end. As is her way, Reynolds created a strong alpha male in Damian but he was suitable matched in the very strong and capable heroine, Casey Lewis. I loved reading every moment of this story from the sexy interludes, to fighting the evil sorcerer, to the glimpse about the next warrior in the series. I can tell that the Stone Warriors series will be another highly anticipated favorite from Reynolds.
Paranormal romance lovers, specifically those who enjoy magic, myth, and lore will will be absolutely thrilled to dive into this one. Although the story is not overladen with these elements, they infuse the story with an engaging potency that is not to be missed. Damian started off with an intensity that did not let up until the very end. As is her way, Reynolds created a strong alpha male in Damian but he was suitable matched in the very strong and capable heroine, Casey Lewis. I loved reading every moment of this story from the sexy interludes, to fighting the evil sorcerer, to the glimpse about the next warrior in the series. I can tell that the Stone Warriors series will be another highly anticipated favorite from Reynolds.
August 22, 2016
Disappointing. I struggled to finish it, don't know why I bothered.
This is the sentence that I am typing now: compared to this author's Vampire books, this one made no damn sense. And it was boring. And the heroine was really unlikable.
This is the sentence that I am typing now: compared to this author's Vampire books, this one made no damn sense. And it was boring. And the heroine was really unlikable.
November 16, 2016
More or less a 2.7 or something.
I found it boring for the most part, not romantic, the relationship between the characters wasn't well done in my opinion and the plot was weak. Some little details saved it but I was definitely not impressed.
I found it boring for the most part, not romantic, the relationship between the characters wasn't well done in my opinion and the plot was weak. Some little details saved it but I was definitely not impressed.
November 20, 2017
Damian is book 1 in a new series by D.B. Reynolds. I loved the concept of Nick a former lover of Cyn who is the mate of Lord Raphael from the Vampires in America series is not just a man but a powerful sorcerer. His warriors were cursed to stone and he has been searching for them for a very long time. The first warrior whose curse is broken is Damian and lucky for him Casey who is a hunter for Nick did it. I loved the chemistry between the two and the sexy times were super hot. I thought they worked great together and Damian was awesome. Casey at times was annoying but I understood the reasons for her mistrust. My biggest complaint is that the overall plot of the story was a little boring. The book was spent trailing an artifact and Nick's enemy. Overall a really good start to a new series. On to book 2.
May 17, 2016
Damian is the first book in D.B. Reynolds Stone Warriors series and takes place in the same time setting as her "Vampires in America" series. Stone Warriors could be considered a spinoff although other having met Nick in VIA and the beginning of his story in Compelled it really stands on it's own.
Nick Katsaros is a long-lived sorcerer who "lost" four of his closest warriors/brothers when a rival and evil sorcerer, Sortiris cast a spell on them that turned them into stone statues and hid them across the world. Nick has been looking for the statues for a very, very long time. He has recruited a group of FBI agents with magical talents to find magical artifacts and make sure they don't get into the wrong hands, especially Sortiris.
Cassandra (Casey) is one of the FBI agents working for Nick when she goes on a mission to retrieve a magical amulet. During the chase Casey inadvertently frees Damian, one of Nick's warriors, from his statue. Damian agrees to help Casey track down the amulet and this puts them both in the path of Sortiris who wants the amulet for his own reasons.
I really enjoyed this book but there were a couple of things that kept it from a 5 star rating for me. Damian just seemed to adapt the his "new world" a bit too quickly. Yes, I get that he was able to hear and see in his statue form but it had still been a 1000 years and it just didn't seem realistic that he was able to adapt so quickly. The second, was Casey who I really liked at the beginning and end of the book. However, in the middle she made a few decisions that were not only a bit selfish but stupid considering everything that was going on.
Despite, those two things this was a really good book. I loved the relationship between Damian and Nick and was glad the author didn't shy away from their strong feelings for each other. I liked the banter between Damian and Casey and the sex was hot. I liked that both Casey and Damian had their inner struggles/insecurities to work through and their feelings took some time to build. The overall plot was entertaining, interesting and I can't wait to read more about the other warriors and especially Nick since I find his character very interesting. Although he is in this book here and there this reader couldn't help but wanting more Nick in the book!
A very promising and entertaining start to what will surely be another one of my favorite series. It has action, romance, a truly interesting plot and hot sex. I highly recommend the Stone Warriors and look forward to what D.B. Reynolds has in store for her future Stone Warriors!
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for gifting me this book in return for a fair review
Nick Katsaros is a long-lived sorcerer who "lost" four of his closest warriors/brothers when a rival and evil sorcerer, Sortiris cast a spell on them that turned them into stone statues and hid them across the world. Nick has been looking for the statues for a very, very long time. He has recruited a group of FBI agents with magical talents to find magical artifacts and make sure they don't get into the wrong hands, especially Sortiris.
Cassandra (Casey) is one of the FBI agents working for Nick when she goes on a mission to retrieve a magical amulet. During the chase Casey inadvertently frees Damian, one of Nick's warriors, from his statue. Damian agrees to help Casey track down the amulet and this puts them both in the path of Sortiris who wants the amulet for his own reasons.
I really enjoyed this book but there were a couple of things that kept it from a 5 star rating for me. Damian just seemed to adapt the his "new world" a bit too quickly. Yes, I get that he was able to hear and see in his statue form but it had still been a 1000 years and it just didn't seem realistic that he was able to adapt so quickly. The second, was Casey who I really liked at the beginning and end of the book. However, in the middle she made a few decisions that were not only a bit selfish but stupid considering everything that was going on.
Despite, those two things this was a really good book. I loved the relationship between Damian and Nick and was glad the author didn't shy away from their strong feelings for each other. I liked the banter between Damian and Casey and the sex was hot. I liked that both Casey and Damian had their inner struggles/insecurities to work through and their feelings took some time to build. The overall plot was entertaining, interesting and I can't wait to read more about the other warriors and especially Nick since I find his character very interesting. Although he is in this book here and there this reader couldn't help but wanting more Nick in the book!
A very promising and entertaining start to what will surely be another one of my favorite series. It has action, romance, a truly interesting plot and hot sex. I highly recommend the Stone Warriors and look forward to what D.B. Reynolds has in store for her future Stone Warriors!
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for gifting me this book in return for a fair review
August 22, 2023
Lovely original concept
I loved the originality if this story line. The plot was great, the relationship between the main characters atomic, and the mystery/action fantastic.
I loved the originality if this story line. The plot was great, the relationship between the main characters atomic, and the mystery/action fantastic.
May 19, 2016
Another wonderful series from D.B. Reynolds.
Damian is the first book in the new Stone Warriors series, a spin-off of the Vampires in America books. Nick Katsaros, Cyn's old friend-with-benefits and Raphael's PITA, is the tie-over and unifying character in Stone Warriors. As we discovered from the most recent VIA novels and the novella Compelled (look away if you haven't read those and want to before reading this book), Nick actually is an ancient and powerful sorcerer whose nemesis had magically encased his four warrior brothers in stone three thousand years ago. Nick's quest since then has been to find and free those men and wreak revenge on his enemy. Damian is the first to be liberated.
Cassandra (Casey) Lewis works for Nick, loosely connected with the FBI, searching out magical artifacts. She runs into trouble while retrieving the Talisman, one such powerful artifact, and accidentally frees Damian from his stone prison. Together, they must track down the artifact before Nick's enemy Sotiris can unleash its power on the world. In that desperate search, Casey and Damian also must overcome their own personal issues as a fierce attraction makes them much more than comrades-in-arms.
Reynolds does smart, tough women and alpha but not alpha-hole men very well, and this story is no exception. The chemistry sparks and the sex is blistering. There are minor inconsistencies and slow parts that do not detract much from the story. Nick makes some appearances, and his reunion with Damian is heart-warming. I assume that the next three books will feature each of the remaining Stone Warriors being freed and the last will give Nick his HEA. I'm hoping that his assistant Lilia will not factor in that as her giggling, flirting demeanor with Damian does not seem to make her a worthy match for Nick. A hint at the end that there may be more to her does, however, give me hope.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable story and a promising new series. Now I can look forward to yet more wonderful books from D.B. Reynolds.
Damian is the first book in the new Stone Warriors series, a spin-off of the Vampires in America books. Nick Katsaros, Cyn's old friend-with-benefits and Raphael's PITA, is the tie-over and unifying character in Stone Warriors. As we discovered from the most recent VIA novels and the novella Compelled (look away if you haven't read those and want to before reading this book), Nick actually is an ancient and powerful sorcerer whose nemesis had magically encased his four warrior brothers in stone three thousand years ago. Nick's quest since then has been to find and free those men and wreak revenge on his enemy. Damian is the first to be liberated.
Cassandra (Casey) Lewis works for Nick, loosely connected with the FBI, searching out magical artifacts. She runs into trouble while retrieving the Talisman, one such powerful artifact, and accidentally frees Damian from his stone prison. Together, they must track down the artifact before Nick's enemy Sotiris can unleash its power on the world. In that desperate search, Casey and Damian also must overcome their own personal issues as a fierce attraction makes them much more than comrades-in-arms.
Reynolds does smart, tough women and alpha but not alpha-hole men very well, and this story is no exception. The chemistry sparks and the sex is blistering. There are minor inconsistencies and slow parts that do not detract much from the story. Nick makes some appearances, and his reunion with Damian is heart-warming. I assume that the next three books will feature each of the remaining Stone Warriors being freed and the last will give Nick his HEA. I'm hoping that his assistant Lilia will not factor in that as her giggling, flirting demeanor with Damian does not seem to make her a worthy match for Nick. A hint at the end that there may be more to her does, however, give me hope.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable story and a promising new series. Now I can look forward to yet more wonderful books from D.B. Reynolds.
August 8, 2017
Stone warriors, magic, gunfights, romance and more!
In this fist book of the Stone warriors series. It is a loose spin off of the Vampires in America series that focuses on magic and sorcerers instead of vampires. There is a brief mention of vampires but this series is still very much stand alone and you wouldn't need to read the other to enjoy this one.
I really enjoyed this book from the first paragraph. The opening scene sets a fast and exciting pace that throws you straight into the story and makes you excited to keep truing the pages. We begin with Casey on the run from some bad guys. I'm not going to spoil anything but in her escape she manages to find and wake up a stone warrior that her boss had mentioned had been out in the world but she thought was just a story. She has a slight magic gift that she uses to locate magic artifacts. The warrior she woke up is Damian. He had been cursed millennia ago and now he wants to find his friend/boss (Nick from the ViA series) and free his fellow warriors that were also cursed.
There is a lot of action and intrigue that keeps you guessing and reading, wondering what will happen next. There are also some pretty steamy love scenes mixed in there as well. I really enjoyed this story and this new avenue that Reynolds has opened in the Vampires in America world. There has always been some magic in her vampire books but it was never the focus. I like how she is using the same world and just expanding on it. I am curious to see what happens as the series continues. We have three more warriors that need freed and I am assuming that Nick will get his own HEA as well in there somewhere.
There are still a few unanswered questions in my mind after finishing the book but I hope they will be answered in later books. There is a little teaser in the last chapter that hints of the next book so we will see.
In this fist book of the Stone warriors series. It is a loose spin off of the Vampires in America series that focuses on magic and sorcerers instead of vampires. There is a brief mention of vampires but this series is still very much stand alone and you wouldn't need to read the other to enjoy this one.
I really enjoyed this book from the first paragraph. The opening scene sets a fast and exciting pace that throws you straight into the story and makes you excited to keep truing the pages. We begin with Casey on the run from some bad guys. I'm not going to spoil anything but in her escape she manages to find and wake up a stone warrior that her boss had mentioned had been out in the world but she thought was just a story. She has a slight magic gift that she uses to locate magic artifacts. The warrior she woke up is Damian. He had been cursed millennia ago and now he wants to find his friend/boss (Nick from the ViA series) and free his fellow warriors that were also cursed.
There is a lot of action and intrigue that keeps you guessing and reading, wondering what will happen next. There are also some pretty steamy love scenes mixed in there as well. I really enjoyed this story and this new avenue that Reynolds has opened in the Vampires in America world. There has always been some magic in her vampire books but it was never the focus. I like how she is using the same world and just expanding on it. I am curious to see what happens as the series continues. We have three more warriors that need freed and I am assuming that Nick will get his own HEA as well in there somewhere.
There are still a few unanswered questions in my mind after finishing the book but I hope they will be answered in later books. There is a little teaser in the last chapter that hints of the next book so we will see.
March 7, 2017
D.B. Reynolds has done it again with this series. Damian is a very promising start to this new series, which is a spin-off series from her Vampire in America Series via the small role character Nick, an ancient Sorcerer who turns up in Book 1, Raphael, Book 10, Deception, then most importantly in the ViA Novella, Compelled, which basically sets up this book. If you haven't ever read the Vampires in America series don't let that hold you back from reading this book - it can certainly be enjoyed on its own, as all is explained without the extra background. If you are a Vampires in America fan however, make sure to read the novella Compelled first, it will just make it more enjoyable having the entire back story. This is a really good read, with the typical alpha male, but one with a heart, and a tough girl that's had a rough background that doesn't trust men, but is wildly attracted to one. The pair have a whole lot of chemistry going on! It is interesting because it deals with sorcery and magic and has a pretty far-fetched story that the author somehow makes you buy into and keep turning the page for more! It ends with a teaser for the next book, and I will for sure be getting it!
July 25, 2018
A pretty cool branching off from the Vampires in America series. This revolves around Nick (Nicodemus) and his lost warriors.
Damian is basically rescued by a damsel in distress, which was pretty cool. However, part of this really bothered me when Casey is demonized because she snaps at Damian when he's being pretty damn condescending, but it's ok later when he is deceptive and she should just suck it up. Um, nope.
This is a solid addition to the already pretty great world building/storyline from Vamps. Excited to see how the other stone warriors are brought to life.
Damian is basically rescued by a damsel in distress, which was pretty cool. However, part of this really bothered me when Casey is demonized because she snaps at Damian when he's being pretty damn condescending, but it's ok later when he is deceptive and she should just suck it up. Um, nope.
This is a solid addition to the already pretty great world building/storyline from Vamps. Excited to see how the other stone warriors are brought to life.
January 8, 2019
3+, I love this author, the way the characters are brought into the book are wonderful. The story for this series started a little slow for me. I found myself setting it down often and coming back to it later. This doesn't usually happen with this author. I still think it was a great book, just a little slower then I would have like.
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